When your child eats right, her body grows stronger, her brain becomes more alert and she is generally happier. Healthy eating habits provide lifelong rewards, in terms of both improved health and happiness. Getting kids to think beyond mac ‘n’ cheese, however, can be a real challenge.

The good news is that you have the ability to change your family’s habits. Kids are imitators; when they see us eating right, they follow suit. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy occasional treats – just do so in moderation.

Next, minimize power struggles by understanding the “Ps and Cs.” It’s a parent’s job to plan, prepare and provide nutritious foods. It’s a kids job to choose whether, what and how much to eat.

Help kids eat well at every age!

Infants/Toddlers: Recognize Hunger:

Children instinctively know when they’re hungry, so follow their lead. Help kids stay tuned in to their hunger cues by:

Breastfeeding. You can’t overfeed an exclusively breastfed baby, so feel free to nurse when and as long as the baby wants.